WELCOME
A Message from Chamber Leadership O N E Y E A R A N D T H R E E E D I T I O N S L AT E R , our pride in OneVoice Maine magazine continues
to grow with each publication. Building upon the themes of the two previous issues, this edition focuses on another Mainer who has left a significant and indelible mark on our state – Harold Alfond, the founder of Dexter Shoe Company. As you read these stories, you will quickly understand Harold’s philanthropic spirit is as legendary as his business acumen. Rooted deeply in collaboration, Harold certainly committed his life to making Maine a better place to live and work for all.
CLIF GREIM Board Chair; President, Frosty Hill Consulting
“True philanthropy requires a disruptive mindset, innovative thinking, and a philosophy driven by entrepreneurial insights and creative opportunities,” entrepreneur Naveen Jain once said. Harold possessed that mindset – using innovation, leadership, and engagement in the development of his manufacturing endeavors, as well as in the projects supported by his philanthropic foundation. At just 36 years old, Harold established the Harold Alfond Foundation, and since his passing in 2007, the foundation has continued his philanthropic legacy through investments that make “enduring, transformative contributions to the community and state of Maine.” Today, the Foundation invests in education, health care, and youth and community development causes, following the values of Harold Alfond, which maintain that: Young people are the future of Maine and deserve healthy communities, high-quality educational opportunities, and the chance to learn and grow through teamwork and athletics. The health and well-being of our communities rely on addressing pressing needs with strong leadership, creative and entrepreneurial solutions, and teamwork. An educated and healthy citizenry is vital for the future success of Maine, the well-being of our communities, and the strength of our economy. Those who live, work, play, and grow in our state deserve the best educational institutions and health care services.
DANA CONNORS President, Maine State Chamber of Commerce
Harold’s passions and principles resonate profoundly throughout the causes and communities in which he’s invested. American banker David Rockefeller noted that, “Philanthropy is involved with basic innovations that transform society, not simply maintaining the status quo or filling basic needs that were formerly the province of the public sector.” Whether you know it or not, Alfond Foundation grants are at work benefiting communities in every corner of our state. We owe a debt of gratitude to Harold for his vision, care, and passion. We hope you enjoy this edition of OneVoice Maine as we attempt to spotlight some of his many impactful projects. And more importantly, as we progress through the pandemic recovery, we hope you find projects in your community that inspire you, that transform your corner of Maine, and that empower the next generation of Mainers to do the same.
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Maine State Chamber of Commerce
